Kea, also known as Tzia, with its unique charm, presents opportunities for undiluted relaxation. From ambling paths, scenic beaches, underwater exploration, to opulent hotels – everything you could possibly desire awaits your arrival.

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Kea is the Cyclades’ closest island to Athens, and paradoxically it is also the most ‘atypical’ and misapprehended. It’s ‘atypical’ because Ioulida, the island’s capital, defies the quintessential Cycladic aesthetic – most of its residences boast red-tiled roofs. Misconstrued because its proximity to Lavrion Port on the south eastern tip of Attica, just an hour by ferry, tends to reduce it in the eyes of many, relegating it to a mere nearby escape.

Yet, Kea holds the potential to serve up practically everything you could wish for in an ideal weekend get-away. Think unspoilt beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, a network of spectacular hiking trails that cover a total of 81 kilometers, striking architectural structures such as the ‘steagadia‘ (canopy-covered small arcades), and specifically the ones fashioned by Alekos Fassianos, the renowned Greek painter (1935-2022). Imagine beautiful stone villas peppered across the island, exceptional cuisine, and a balance of tranquility and vibrant social life that’s just right. Known as Hydroussa in ancient times, and referred to as Tzia during the Turkish rule, the island’s current official name is Kea.

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Picturesque lane in Ioulida/Photo: Shutterstock
The iconic blue and white lighthouse of Tzia/Photo: Shutterstock

Your tour in Tzia should ideally kick-off in Ioulida. Positioned eight kilometers from the port, Ioulida distinguishes itself from other Cycladic capitals with its vibrant houses, typically two-story structures, many sporting terracotta roofs. The cobblestone paths contribute to a relaxed, charming village atmosphere. It’s an ideal place for leisurely strolls through the maze of winding streets. Be sure to check out the old neoclassical school building, take a step back in time with a visit to the Town Hall, dating back to 1902, and certainly don’t miss out on Kea’s renowned stone lion, whose enigmatic smile has been frozen since 600 BC.

Breakfast

Breakfast on Kea is quite the experience. If you ask the locals, 9 out of 10 will recommend you try the famed triangular cheese pie at the “Bakery at the Port” (Korissia, Tel. 22880 21303). For something more substantial, featuring the likes of croque madame, omelettes, and club sandwiches, do stop by the “Kokka Cafe” (Vourkari, Tel. 22880 28012).

No holiday can ever be complete without a dip in the sea, and Kea offers beaches to cater to every preference. The cosmopolitan Gialiskari beach, the famed Koundouros, and the stunning Spathi are popular favourites. If you’re after something more tranquil, the serene Sykamia beach and Kalyvia, with its natural shade provided by tamarisk trees, are worth considering.

If adrenaline-charged activities are more your style, Koundouraki is the place to go. There, “Kea Water Sports” (Koundouraki, Tel. 6973 747473) offers a range of options from water skiing and wakeboarding to towable inflatables. The excitement extends beneath the waves too. If you’ve ever fancied diving, Kea is certainly a top spot to consider. In 1916, the British ocean liner “Britannic”, the “Titanic’s” sister ship, along with the French ocean liner “Burdigala”, sunk off the island’s coast. For more details, get in touch with “Kea Divers” (Vourkari, Tel. 2288022280).

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Photo: Margarita’s Country House/Facebook
Photo: Margarita’s Country House/Facebook

For dining, the options are extensive and impressive. Across the island, you’ll find taverns serving fresh fish and Kea’s renowned lobster pasta. For a taste of traditional Greek cuisine, visit “Lagoudera” (Korissia, Tel. 22880 21977), and if fresh seafood tickles your fancy, make your way to “Aristo” (Vourkari, Tel. 22880 21475), conveniently located by the sea.

You can also try fresh fish at “Mimi’s Turn” (Vourkari, Tel. 22880 21480), and for a classic Greek cuisine experience, drop by “Margarita’s Country House” (Poisses, Tel. 22880 31223). Good drinks and carefully selected music await you at the historical “Leon” bar (Ioulida, Tel. 6987 506892), hidden in the narrow lanes of Chora.

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Photo: Kea Village
Photo: Porto Kea Suites
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Photo: Agrikea Farm Stay Hotel/Facebook
Photo: Anamar Kea Boutique Hotel/Facebook

For accommodations, the choice is yours. If sweeping vistas from the island’s highest point in Ioulida are what you desire, consider one of the suites at “Kea Village” (Ioulida, Tel. 6972 243330, www.keavillage.gr). If solitude is more your style, the autonomous apartments at “Porto Kea Suites” (Korissia, Tel. 22880 22870, www.portokea-suites.com) are a perfect choice, offering their own private beach. “Agrikea Farm Stay Hotel” (Roukounas, Tel. 22880 22564, www.agrikea.com) is the go-to destination for those seeking a farmstay experience, and “Anamar Kea Boutique Hotel” (Koundouros, Tel. 22880 31444, www.anamarkea.gr) is the place for those in pursuit of luxury.

Read also:

One & Only Kea Island is a world-class masterpiece

Five beautiful Airbnbs in picturesque Poros

Agistri: Escape to the pine-covered island of the Argosaronic Gulf